Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare world, admired for its capacity to hydrate, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid squalane zinc sunscreen organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple key sources: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The preference between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was frequently derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has major ethical problems. Millions of sharks are killed every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also produces a high-quality product for skincare use.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer botanical choices, their environmental impact is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for ethical reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for significant environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming consumes massive amounts of water and often causes pollution. This makes it unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, delivering effective hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, making it ideal for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil delivers incredible benefits. By choosing plant-based options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also treat your skin to a superior solutions available.